Category: Buyers

There’s a lot of waiting in real estate. You’re aware of that if you’ve bought or sold a house. As a Realtor, I wait for signs, photos, appraisers, inspectors, clients, lenders, other agents and closings.

Today, while I’m waiting for you to call about selling your house (or buying one), I’ll practice a few affirmations – Realtors are big on affirmations. I may (will) twist them a bit to suit my purpose.

1.) I am the architect of my life (are you thinking about new construction?); I build its foundation (no cracks, please) and choose its contents (built-ins?).

2.) Today, I am brimming with energy (plumbed for gas in the kitchen) and overflowing with joy (immediately upon closing).

3.) My body is healthy (though a bit tired); my mind is brilliant (I’m definitely bright, but I don’t know about brilliant!); my soul is tranquil (that might be a stretch – I really need to hear from a lender).

The real estate agent lifestyle isn’t for everyone. I love what I do, but some people would be horrified if they spent a day driving, hopping in and out of the rain, shoes off at the front door, feet like raisins. But there’s lots of variety, and very rarely are two days ever the same.

Of course, this doesn’t mean that being an agent doesn’t come with its share of irritations. It can be very stressful, and a lot can go wrong. Most agents have developed their own pet peeves over the years – things that drive them absolutely crazy. Here are some of the most common:

1. Close friends and family who hire someone else

They say things like, ‘I know you’re busy’, ‘I’m not certain what I’m looking for and didn’t want to waste your time’, ‘we’re looking in another county’, and then there’s the real stinger, ‘I completely forgot you sell real estate’. Now, there could be a multitude of reasons for family and friends to go to another agent, but I can take the truth! How about, ‘I don’t want you in my business’, ‘I work with his mother’, or just plain ‘I don’t want to work with you because fill in the blank here’. I’m not everyone’s cup of tea. That’s why there are so many Realtors.

People are unique and it’s important to feel comfortable with your agent of choice. But it does sting a bit more when it’s a close friend or family member, especially if you’ve helped them with real estate advice in the past. You can’t take it personally, but that’s easier said than done. Continue reading Zestimates? I’ll Give It My Bestimate.